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Thursday, May 8, 2014

Wear red to support National Day of Honour May 9

May 9, 2014, has officially been declared by the federal government as National Day of Honour to commemorate the end of the Afghanistan mission. This day is a way for Canadians across the country to acknowledge the strength and the sacrifices made by members of the Canadian Armed Forces, and to support the friends and families of fallen soldiers in Afghanistan.

Calgarians are encouraged to wear red on that day and to observe a moment of silence, in support and acknowledgement of National Day of Honour.

“Our mission in Afghanistan and the sacrifices we made for it is an important part of our history—of who we are as Calgarians and Canadians," says Mayor Nenshi. "Let’s take Friday to join together as a city and honour the soldiers and families that gave so much so that others may experience a modicum of the freedom we enjoy.”

In Calgary, The Canadian Armed Forces will host a National Day of Honour Parade:Where: Mewata Armoury, Downtown Calgary - 801 11 Street S.W.When: Friday, May 9, 2014, 11 a.m. to noon

158 Canadian Armed Forces Members lost their lives while serving in Afghanistan, this number includes 40 Alberta based soldiers. Four Canadian civilians were also killed. For a complete list of all fallen soldiers, you can visit the National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces webpage.

Mayor Nenshi also adds, “Beyond this important National Day of Honour, I hope we can all commit to honouring—through our daily actions as Canadians—the strength, spirit, and sacrifice of the members of our Canadian Armed Forces from all times of peace and conflict.”

On March 12, 2014, City flags were lowered to signify the end of the Afghanistan mission and to honour the fallen Albertan soldiers.

The Afghanistan Memorial Vigil is currently touring Canada and will be in Calgary this coming August. More information will be posted as the date gets closer.